Northern Kitchen

Welcome to Northern Kitchen, a Chinese Restaurant located at 7827 Portland Ave S in Bloomington, MN 55420, USA. Often described as a "low key hidden gem," Northern Kitchen offers local users an opportunity to experience authentic Chinese food in Bloomington. Its somewhat inconspicuous location and potentially exclusive clientele contribute to its unique charm. As a Chinese Restaurant, Northern Kitchen focuses on providing dishes that are true to traditional Chinese flavors, setting it apart from more Americanized Chinese food establishments.

Northern Kitchen primarily offers dine-in services, allowing customers to savor their authentic Chinese meals in a relaxed setting. The availability of a phone number, (952) 456-8681 or +1 952-456-8681, suggests that they may also accept phone inquiries and possibly takeout orders. One reviewer noted that upon arriving on a Saturday at lunchtime, the restaurant was empty, providing a spacious and bright dining environment. The service was described as friendly and helpful, with the server readily answering questions about the menu. This indicates a welcoming and attentive service approach for dine-in customers.

The environment of Northern Kitchen is described as spacious and bright, benefiting from plenty of natural light. This suggests a comfortable and airy dining area. The fact that one reviewer found the restaurant empty during a typical lunch hour might indicate that it is less crowded than other dining options, potentially offering a more peaceful dining experience. The presence of a connecting "Relaxing Healthy Center," likened to saunas in China, adds an intriguing dimension to the location, although it is a separate establishment. This unique connection might appeal to customers seeking a holistic experience.

Northern Kitchen's key feature is its commitment to serving authentic Chinese food. Several reviewers have explicitly praised the authenticity of the dishes. One reviewer, who ordered familiar Chinese restaurant staples, found every dish to be above average compared to similar dishes elsewhere. A standout recommendation is the fried pork in scoop (锅包肉), lauded for its delightful sweet and sour sauce. Other appreciated vegetable dishes include eggplant in garlic sauce (鱼香茄子), green beans with garlic (干煸四季豆), and Chinese cabbage (手撕包菜), with a notable vinegar tang in the cabbage. While one reviewer found the cumin lamb (孜然羊肉) to be mild in cumin flavor, they appreciated the generous amount of lamb. The spicy pepper chicken (辣子鸡) received high praise for its delicious taste and perfect level of spice. Additionally, the Kung Pao chicken was described as light and fresh. Another reviewer highlighted the General Tao’s chicken, dumplings, shrimp fried rice, and beef fried noodles (lo mein) as fantastic, noting that the flavors were light and delicious, unlike heavier Chinese food. This suggests a focus on fresh ingredients and well-prepared dishes.

A minor suggestion for improvement mentioned by one reviewer was that the flavors of some dishes tended to be on the mild side, although they clarified that this did not detract from the authenticity. This indicates that while the food is genuinely Chinese, it might be less intensely flavored than what some diners might be accustomed to. However, this could also appeal to those who prefer a more subtle and nuanced flavor profile in their Chinese cuisine.

Currently, there is no specific promotional information available for Northern Kitchen in the provided reviews. As a potentially smaller, independently owned restaurant, they might not have large-scale promotions. Local users interested in any special offers or discounts are advised to contact the restaurant directly at (952) 456-8681. They might have daily specials or seasonal dishes that are not mentioned in the general reviews.

In conclusion, Northern Kitchen in Bloomington offers local users a chance to experience authentic Chinese cuisine in a spacious and bright environment with friendly service. While it might be a bit of a "hidden gem" and potentially less crowded, the positive reviews highlight the above-average quality of their dishes, particularly the fried pork in scoop, spicy pepper chicken, and Kung Pao chicken. Some diners might find the flavors to be on the milder side, but the authenticity is consistently praised. For those seeking a departure from more Americanized Chinese fare and a taste of genuine Chinese cooking, Northern Kitchen is highly recommended. To inquire about takeout options or any current specials, please contact the restaurant directly at (952) 456-8681.

For local residents of Bloomington, Northern Kitchen presents an opportunity to discover truly authentic Chinese flavors. The positive feedback from multiple reviewers regarding the quality and authenticity of the food suggests a kitchen that prioritizes traditional recipes and preparation methods. The spacious and well-lit dining area, coupled with friendly service, contributes to a pleasant dining experience. While the restaurant might be less well-known, the consistently positive remarks about the food, with specific mentions of standout dishes like the fried pork in scoop and the spicy pepper chicken, indicate that it is a place worth seeking out for those who appreciate genuine Chinese cuisine.

The features of Northern Kitchen extend beyond just serving food; it offers a glimpse into authentic Chinese culinary traditions. The variety of dishes mentioned in the reviews, from meat and seafood to vegetables, suggests a comprehensive menu that caters to different tastes. The positive comparison of their dishes to those found in other Chinese restaurants indicates a higher standard of quality and authenticity. The recommendation to those specifically looking for authentic Chinese food underscores this key feature. The connection to the Relaxing Healthy Center, while a separate entity, adds a unique aspect to the location and might attract a clientele interested in both culinary and wellness experiences.

In summary, Northern Kitchen in Bloomington stands out as a provider of authentic Chinese cuisine, offering a diverse menu of well-prepared dishes in a comfortable and welcoming setting. The positive reviews emphasize the quality and authenticity of the food, with specific dishes receiving high praise. While some might find the flavors milder than expected, this is attributed to the authenticity rather than a lack of taste. Local users in Bloomington and the surrounding areas who are in search of a genuine Chinese culinary experience are strongly encouraged to visit Northern Kitchen. For further details on their menu and services, contacting them directly is advised.